[Classic Hits of the 70s] A Compilation of Western Songs Used in Commercials
When it comes to Western music from the 1970s, there were so many timeless classics that are still loved today.
Many of those popular songs have been used in TV commercials in Japan since back then.
And in recent years, quite a few of them have been newly featured in commercials again.
In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive introduction to 1970s Western songs that have been used in commercials so far.
As we gathered the tracks featured in commercials, we ended up with a wonderful collection of masterpieces, so take this opportunity to find some new favorites!
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[Classic Hits of the 70s] A compilation of Western songs used in commercials (41–50)
SailingRod Stewart
With its cool, gravelly husky voice, “Sailing” is irresistibly stylish.
Rock singer Rod Stewart—ranked 33rd in Q Magazine’s list of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time—released it in 1975.
Many will know it from the Subaru Legacy commercial.
Although “Sailing” is widely known as one of his signature songs, it’s actually a cover.
The original was by the Scottish folk band the Sutherland Brothers, arranged mainly around a harmonium (a type of organ) and a kick drum, giving it a strong folk feel.
Rod’s version is easier on the ears for many listeners.
Each version has its own charm, so be sure to compare them!
BURNDeep Purple
Japanese title: “Purple Flame.” A signature song of Deep Purple’s Mark III lineup, featuring David Coverdale on vocals, who would later form Whitesnake.
More recently, it became well-known from a Tama Home commercial, and in the past it was used as the commercial song for the Suzuki Swift Sport.
Use MeBill Withers
This is a 2006 commercial for the Tiida, a compact car that emphasizes premium quality.
The gold color scheme is striking, making it a memorable ad after just one viewing.
The BGM is distinctive too—many of you may recognize it.
The song is “Use Me” by American singer-songwriter Bill Withers.
It was included on his 1972 album “Still Bill,” and its characteristic riff really leaves a strong impression.
CLAIRGilbert O`Sullivan
A hit number by Irish singer-songwriter Gilbert O’Sullivan.
It was used as the commercial song for Toyota’s Vista.
The track is a tender ode to an uncle and his young niece; the real-life Claire was the young daughter of O’Sullivan’s producer-manager, and you can hear the little girl’s giggle at the end of the song.
It’s a warmly soothing number that leaves you feeling very happy.
New York State of MindBilly Joel
This commercial, featuring Hana Sugisaki standing still in the middle of Shibuya’s scramble crossing—an image that leaves a strong impression—introduces a company’s mission to use IT to make the future better.
The dawn-lit visuals are so beautiful that you can’t help but want to watch it over and over.
The emotional song that plays alongside this wonderful footage is Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind.” Released in 1976, the song expresses Billy’s feelings as he returned to his hometown of New York.
His richly expressive vocals—and the beautiful piano accompaniment—further elevate the song’s moving atmosphere.
The HustleVan McCoy and the Soul City Symphony
A smash-hit disco track by Van McCoy & The Soul City Symphony.
Many of you may have danced the night away to this song, right? It was featured in commercials for companies such as Suntory Protein Water, Torabayu job magazine, and Fujifilm.
Get It OnChase
The Japanese title is “Black Flame,” released in 1971.
It was used as the commercial song for Asahi Soft Drinks’ canned coffee “WANDA,” featuring Junji Takada and Taichi Kokubun.
More recently, it has also been used in an NTT Docomo commercial starring Shinichi Tsutsumi and Go Ayano.
Isn’t this trumpet melody something everyone has heard?